CMW 2013 Picks By Myles Herod

By: Myles Herod, March 19, 2013

Canadian Music Week starts today and we’ve rounded up some of our top picks as picked by our new asscoiate editor Myles Herod.

Big Star: Nothing Can Hurt Me (film)

Perhaps the ultimate cult band, Big Star (and its enduring legacy) is what this doc is all about. Eluding fame upon their run in the 1970s, Big Star’s three albums are widely regarded as masterpieces, influencing the likes of REM, The Flamings Lips and Belle and Sebastian (just to name a few). Loaded with in-depth interviews, this is a must see for any rock fan (with an appetite for forgotten treasures).

Saturday March 23 @ 6pm @ TIFF Bell Lightbox Theatre

Efterklang

A band whose name translates loosely to “reverberation” or “remembrance,” this Danish trio hones a rich mix between electronic chamber music and contemplative minimalism. Their vibrant arrangements are worth the price alone. Think Sigur Ros before they got popular.

Thursday March 21 @ 10pm @ The Virgin Mod Club

Chvrches

With only a mere three singles to their name (ambitious elector-pop singles I might add), this Scottish trio has set the music blogosphere ablaze. Pre-mature hype? There’s only one way to find out.

Wednesday March 20 @ 10pm @ The Virgin Mod Club

The White Buffalo

With a voice that sounds like Eddie Vedder, White Buffalo wields an aching, rustic sound that simultaneously sends a chill down your spine while craving out a smile on your face. Call me a hipster, but I’ve loved this guy before the television show ‘Sons of Anarchy’ made him popular.

Wednesday March 20 @ 8pm @ The Black Box Theatre at The Great Hall

Colin James

A Canadian blues icon, Colin James goes down as my sixth choice because I cannot deny guitar virtuosity — which would be a treat to witness live. As legend has it, while playing on the same bill as Stevie Ray Vaughan, the now deceased legend suggested that Colin change his last name from Munn to James, citing the prior as sounding like ‘Mud.’ Damn straight, Stevie.

Wednesday March 20 @ 10pm @ Lee’s Palace

Raekwon

Although he’s playing (ughh) The Sound Academy, Wu-Tang pioneer Raekwon will be throwing down a full performance of his ’95 debut “Only Built 4 Cuban Linx”. The potential cameo appearances by other Wu members is certainly enough incentive for the excursion down to Cherry St.

Wednesday March 20 @ 9pm @ Sound Academy

Besnard Lakes

This Montreal quartet is a beautiful psych trip. While their last outing in 2010 was shortlisted for the Polaris Prize, their newest (to be released April 2nd) is building some substantial buzz in anticipation. Titled Until in Excess, Imperceptible UFO, I think we have the right to get a little excited – especially with a high profile show coinciding with their release date. An epic showcase indeed. (For bonus points, also check out Lowell performing earlier in the night at Lee’s)

Friday March 22 @ 12:30am @ Lee’s Palace

Metric (w/ Diamond Rings and the Wooden Sky)

Bringing a diversity of openers, particularly the chilly pulsations of Toronto’s great Diamond Rings and the Wooden Sky, Metric are sure keep things lively and fun, mixing their set list up with past faves to and forays from their recent mainstream leap. Emily Haine’s stage presence is rather bewitching. She’s clearly a Toronto icon.

Friday March 22 @ 11:30pm @ Kool Haus

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds

This top choice really isn’t a surprise, is it? If you don’t have a ticket already, you’re out of luck. It’s been sold out forever. If you do, bring earplugs – and enjoy what may be one of the best Toronto shows of 2013. Plus, it’s at Massey Hall! *drool*